Single Idea 6688

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / F. Existentialism / 2. Nihilism]

Full Idea

If 'life is absurd' just means 'there is no logical explanation for human existence', we have no reason for anguish, unless we think there should be such an explanation.

Gist of Idea

Life is only absurd if you expected an explanation and none turns up

Source

Gordon Graham (Eight Theories of Ethics [2004], Ch.5)

Book Reference

Graham,Gordon: 'Eight Theories of Ethics' [Routledge 2004], p.85


A Reaction

This is aimed at Kierkegaard and Camus. 'Absurd' certainly seems to be a relative notion, and we have nothing to compare life with. However, life does strike us as a bit odd sometimes, don't you think?